In 1636, as one of the earliest cities in the Netherlands to do so, Utrecht founded a learned academy, which developed into a flourishing university having a large number of faculties offering a wide range of degree courses. In the University Museum you can find the history of this city’s university and the developments that have taken place during the centuries in University teaching. The museum has been careful to place academic learning within a strongly social context. There is a fine collection of scientific instruments, art objects and teaching aids. One can also visit the Youthlab, where children from 10-14 can do experiments in a homely atmosphere. Outside you can enjoy the historic botanical gardens, originally planned as an aspect of botanical education.